BUYER'S GUIDE: 2020 Hyundai Palisade

Stunning and spacious, Hyundai's latest luxury SUV is more than just a pretty face. With a massive seven-passenger seating capacity, the 2020 Hyundai Palisade gives the Korean carmaker a direct competitor in the three-row crossover market lorded by the likes of the Toyota Fortuner, Mitsubishi Montero Sport, and Ford Everest. Hoping that large Filipino families will appreciate the SUV's heft and functionality, Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. launched the Palisade with major fanfare at the recent 2019 Manila International Auto Show. Learn more about the vehicle in this 2020 Hyundai Palisade Buyer's Guide.

Specification

The 2020 Palisade comes equipped with a 198-hp, 2.2-liter R CRDi e-VGT engine paired with an eight-speed computerized transmission controlled by paddle shifters. Using Hyundai's trademarked electronic HTRAC all-wheel drive and multi-terrain control system, the Palisade allows you to choose the right mode for the type of terrain you're on, whether sand, mud, or snow. Of course, the third driving mode isn't applicable, but you never know. Four selectable driving modes (Comfort, Eco, Sport, and Smart) help optimize performance in all driving conditions.

Exterior

With its slit-style daytime running lights, vertical headlights, and gargantuan chrome grille, the Palisade's front looks more like the face of an '80s anime robot than a car. At the back, the reverse L-shaped taillights complement the design cues up front. Overall, the exterior looks to be either a love-it-or-hate-it affair, but to be fair, the car did win an iF Design Award 2019. Headlights and taillights, as well as fog lights, are all LED. A sunroof and roof rack add to the vehicle's style and practicality. The hood insulator is a smart touch and emphasizes the Palisade's luxurious nature.

Interior

Although Hyundai takes plenty of aesthetic risks outside, the interior is thankfully much more conventional, with the carmaker focusing more on making the cabin more spacious and premium instead of unique. Material choices shift seamlessly between suede and leather and although the barrage of buttons at the center console can be overwhelming at first, the design looks clean and polished overall. A 10.25-inch audio display comes with USB and Bluetooth connectivity. Creature comforts include a three-zone automatic temperature control, heated/ventilated power seats, voice recognition, and wireless charging.

Space

Probably most impressive of all, the third-row has enough room for two average-sized adults. If family members lean toward the lanky side, the second-row seats can be slid forward. Both second and third rows are 60:40 split-type flat-folding, and can be lowered or raised automatically using switches in the cargo area.

Safety

Hyundai claims that the Palisade possesses 'safety advances for unparalleled peace of mind.' A comprehensive list of standard safety features includes a nine-airbag system and active safety system equipped with intelligent driving safety technology such as adaptive cruise control with steering assist, automatic emergency braking, remote keyless entry, adaptive high-beam headlights, blind spot monitoring, lane following assist, and front and rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist.

Our Verdict

For those looking for a spacious, practical, and unique-looking SUV, the 2020 Palisade is ready for you at PHP3,240,000. In terms of well-roundedness, mainstream buyers will find plenty of reasons to like Hyundai's latest SUV offering.